American Indian performers return to Blackwater for 2009 Fall Fest

Charley Lowery of Bunceton dances in Blackwater during the 2008 Fall Fest. Lowery was one of a number of dancers and drummers who demonstrated American Indian music and dress. Leader Bill Branson also offered explanations of the significance of the regalia, drums and dance moves.
(Eric Crump/Democrat-News)

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About 40 vendors are scheduled to come to the festival to sell wares of all types, ranging from antiques to crafts to food and more, Cunningham said.

"I think we've got more vendors this year than we've ever had," he said. "This year I know it's going to be better than ever."

But the main attraction at the festival is the American Indian living cultural event, Cunningham said.

This will be the third year for that event, which includes drumming, dancing and singing performances by Americans Indians dressed in tribal costumes. There will also be beadwork, porcupine quillwork and leather-working demonstrations.

Cunningham is very excited about this part of the fall festival.

"It's not just an event that you would come to and watch," he said. "This is an event where you will learn about the native culture, ... you'll be able to ask questions."

The American Indian living cultural event grew out of a group of individuals who would come and practice their music at Cunningham's Blackwater store, Bucksnort Trading Company.

"These folks are from different tribes, different backgrounds," Cunningham said. "Some of them have the most beautiful regalia that you can imagine."

The fall festival is Saturday, Oct. 10, and Sunday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The American Indian living cultural event is Saturday only from noon to 5 p.m. There will be American Indian-style flute music on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9 to noon.

The festival is free and open to the public. Vendor booths will be set up along the main street in Blackwater.

The American Indian living cultural event will be in a grassy field just to the east.

Contact Sydney Stonner at marshallbusiness@socket.net